As the Bundesliga season nears its end, Augsburg coach Jess Thorup remains optimistic. Despite their recent 2-0 defeat against Werder Bremen, the Dane is eager to reward their devoted fans with a victory ahead of Christmas. The WWK Arena will be brimming with 30,660 spectators, ready to cheer on Augsburg in their clash against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday (3.30pm/Sky).
In their previous five encounters, Augsburg has struggled against Dortmund, with only a single point earned. Their last meeting ended in a 3-0 home defeat on matchday 33 of the previous season. Thorup refuses to adopt a defensive approach, asserting they will never drive the bus in front of the goal. Instead, they will continue to play with an offensive mindset.
Dortmund will be without defender Mats Hummels, who is serving a suspension for his 35th birthday. However, Niklas Süle's performance in the draw against Paris Saint-Germain has earned praise from opposing coaches, including Thorup. The German defensive stalwart saved BVB from going behind in the match, preventing Dortmund from slipping further in the standings.
With both teams in need of a boost, the Bundesliga fixture promises an exciting duel. Dortmund, currently fifth, will face off against Augsburg, who sit in ninth place. Thorup acknowledges the quality of BVB, having witnessed their Champions League victories, emphasizing the challenge his team faces in their final home game before the holiday season.
Strategies and Key Players
Augsburg will rely on their defensive solidity to protect their goal and launch quick counter-attacks, exploiting any vulnerabilities in Dortmund's backline. Veteran midfielder Daniel Caligiuri provides leadership and tempo control, while Rani Khedira contributes with defensive expertise and interceptions. Ruben Vargas, a prolific striker, serves as the focal point of Augsburg's offense, eager to capitalize on any mistakes across the BVB backline.
Borussia Dortmund, under new coach Niko Kovac, will adopt a high-pressing strategy to regain possession quickly, aiming to expose Augsburg's defensive weaknesses. Emre Can, Pascal Groß, and Marcel Sabitzer offer control and creativity in the midfield,making it challenging for Augsburg to retain possession. Meanwhile, Youssoufa Moukoko's speed and agility in attack can pose threats for Augsburg's defense.
Injuries might pose complications for both teams: Borussia Dortmund will miss Felix Nmecha's midfield presence due to a ligament injury, while Augsburg has no major reports of injuries in recent updates.
The upcoming match promises to be an exhilarating clash of contrasting strategies and challenging opponents, with both Augsburg and Dortmund eager to bring home a victory.
